Cubs Skipper Search to Intensify?

According to a report from Bruce Levine, Jim Hendry will meet with several managerial candidates over the next ten days. On Wednesday, Levine reported Ryne Sandberg would receive his formal interview during that time period … but the Cubs denied that report Wednesday night. Sandberg is a candidate according to the report from Carrie Muskat, but there is “no schedule for the interview process.”

Levine’s report also mentioned that Eric Wedge, the only candidate known to have a formal interview with Jim Hendry, would receive a second interview over the next month.

Hendry recently met with Sandberg but reportedly not about the managerial opening.

Mike Quade figures to receive his formal interview after the season is over … and rumors have suggested that Pat Listach, Bob Brenly, Joe Girardi, Joe Torre, Bobby Valentine and Ted Simmons are candidates as well.

Levine reported the hiring process may take Hendry “all the way through October.” The team would like their new manager in place by the time the organizational meetings begin on November 2 … which could take Joe Girardi out of the equation if the Yankees are in the Fall Classic competing for their 28th World Championship.

Jim Hendry “is on record stating that there are not favorites for the job nor will there be until he completes his interview process.”